Intrigue, Betrayal, and a City’s Fate: How Ken Livingstone Became London’s First Mayor

In 1998, the landscape of British politics transformed as London prepared for its first-ever directly elected mayor. Spearheaded by Tony Blair’s New Labour government, the movement aimed to introduce a mayoral system akin to that of the United States, but complications soon arose. A referendum that year sought the public’s approval for a Greater London Authority (GLA) with a mayor and assembly. Surprisingly, despite Tony Blair’s enthusiasm, only 34% of voters turned out. However, a decisive 72% supported the creation of the mayoral post, with backing across all boroughs.

The front-runner for this coveted position was Ken Livingstone, the former chairman of the Greater London Council, revered for his leftist stance yet simultaneously regarded as a divisive figure within his party. Blair’s administration preferred Frank Dobson, who held the role of health secretary but was thrust into the election against his will due to party dynamics. Livingstone, initially promising not to run as an independent when he lost the Labour nomination, ultimately opted to do so, igniting tensions and accusations of a rigged process from Labour insiders.

The Conservatives also faced their own chaos; candidate Jeffrey Archer withdrew after being accused of perjury, leading to Steve Norris stepping in as a replacement. Norris, known for his support of gay rights and a flamboyant lifestyle, brought a distinct persona to the race, only to be met by Livingstone’s overwhelming campaign strategy that captured the public’s imagination.

In the May 2000 election, the results were a devastating blow for Labour, with Dobson only grabbing 13% of the vote while Livingstone emerged as a resounding victor with 39%, leaving Norris behind at 27%. As the first independent mayor of London, Livingstone tackled issues such as funding for London Underground, demonstrating a tenacity that resonated with the city’s needs. This election not only marked a pivotal shift in London’s governance but also underscored the challenges and intrigues of political machinations within the major parties, an episode that continues to echo in today’s political landscape.